As we get ready to give thanks for all we’ve received this year, many of us are preparing to pay that good fortune forward to those less fortunate.

This Thanksgiving, several of our area restaurants are giving back to community members in need. They are contributing a combination of financial and in-kind donations and are encouraging their customers and the public in general to join them in the effort. Giving new meaning to the words “Food is Love,” here is a sampling of just a few restaurants in Oregon trying to make a difference for the neighborhoods they serve:

ProstOn Nov. 23, the German pub/biergarten will hold its annual Thanksgiving Day Feast. The restaurant will open its doors at 6 p.m., to serve its annual free turkey dinner. Nearly 100 pounds of turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes and sides will be on the menu. Even though the event is free, guests are encouraged to donate to those in need, AND also bring a side dish to share.

Salt & StrawFor the third year in a row, the Portland-based scoop shop is teaming up with Urban Gleaners, a nonprofit hunger relief charity. For every Thanksgiving Celebration series pint sold, Salt & Straw will donate another one to Urban Gleaners. The goal: increase the number of people Urban Gleaners is able to serve and bring holiday cheer to those in need.

Verde CocinaOn Thanksgiving Day, the Portland-based, gluten-free, paleo and vegan-friendly cafe and catering company is closing all of its locations except one – in Sylvan Heights, where it will serve a family-style meal to guests at 11 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m. What’s on the menu? Guests can choose between a turkey, salmon or stuffed delicata squash entrée, plus dessert. Advance tickets are $40 per adult and $12 per child. Tickets on Thanksgiving Day are $45 per adult and $15 per child. All proceeds will benefit the Oregon Food Bank. And if you can’t make the dinner, but still want to contribute, learn more about the Oregon Food Bank and make a donation.